A Penn State fraternity has been suspended for four years following an investigation into hazing allegations.
The university’s Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response concluded that the Delta Theta chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. “engaged in hazing and was in violation of the Student Code of Conduct,” according to a news release on Tuesday.
The fraternity had been on interim suspension since the investigation began on Aug. 25. A determination in September that the chapter was in violation was upheld on appeal and the fraternity was formally suspended on Monday.
Specific allegations against the fraternity were not made public. Penn State policy and Pennsylvania law define hazing as “intentionally, knowingly or recklessly” endangering the physical or mental health of a student for the purpose of initiating or affiliating with an organization.
“”We hold the health and safety of students as our highest priority and take all allegations of hazing seriously,” Andrea Dowhower, interim vice president for Student Affairs, said in a statement. “It is disappointing and concerning when, despite the legal obligations and educational efforts, groups violate our expectations.”
While suspended, the chapter loses recognition as a sanctioned student organization and cannot participate in, attend or organize any activities or events.
“We urge all student organizations to understand that any attempt to demean, harass, injure or endanger any student who is simply trying to be a member of their organization is hazing. And all forms of hazing are against Penn State policy and against Pennsylvania law,” Dowhower said.
Kappa Alpha Psi is one of seven fraternities at Penn State currently suspended by the university or their national organizations, according to the school’s most recent Greek Chapter Scorecard.
